The White Crane understood Tang Thirty-Six's meaning. It flapped its wings and soared into the sky, making its way towards the summit of Holy Maiden Peak.
Wind gusted through the courtyard, rustling the blossoming trees. Tang Thirty-Six waved his hand and snatched a few petals in the air, then walked back into the thatched cottage and asked Huai Ren, "We're not Xiao Zhang, so we count as guests, correct?"
Huai Ren knew what he had done but did not expose him. Smiling, she answered, "Those who come from afar are naturally guests."
Tang Thirty-Six asked, "Since we're guests, why is there no tea?"
Huai Ren remained serene. "Ping Xuan, serve tea."
The South Stream Temple disciple that had been prostrating behind her this entire time now rose and exited the cottage.
As she passed Tang Thirty-Six, Tang Thirty-Six called her to stop and gave her the petals he had just snatched. In a gentle voice, he said, "Sister Ping Xuan, I like to drink scented tea."
